Help In Predicting Risks For Heart Attacks

Heart disease is the number one killer in America today. This means that it is a good idea to know your risks and the proper preventive care to reduce your risks.

The predictive value of current screening tools in women is poor, but a new blood test may be able to help.

The Test:

PLAC Test- For Lp-PLA2 activity is a test measures an enzyme that is a marker for inflammation within the arteries. This type of inflammation encourages plaque to form, which in turn plays a role in heart attacks and strokes. If your numbers are high, this may mean that you need to start treatment.

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved this test for adults with no history of the disease, but it is most effective in women (especially African-American women).

Already at risk?

If you have high cholesterol or already know you are at high risk for heart disease, then you probably don’t need this new test. It is being used as a screening tool in the hopes of helping those who may not know they are at risk. It may add more evidence to a patient who is on the borderline of risks in other areas of testing.

Risk Factors:

high blood pressure

high cholesterol

diabetes

smoking

obesity

unhealthy diet

inactivity

family history

age

stress

Preventive Actions:

Some of the risk factors for heart disease cannot be prevented. You cannot do anything about your family history, sex, or age. But don’t worry because there are a lot of ways you can still lower your risk.

Lifestyle changes- Get on a low fat, low salt diet, and increase your daily exercise to 30 minutes a day. Avoid alcohol and quite smoking! Be sure to try to reduce stress. See your chiropractor, yogi, acupuncturist, or personal trainer to get help in reducing stress and making the lifestyle changes needed for a happier, healthier, and longer life!

If these changes aren’t working you may need medication and/or surgeries to help. If this is the case be sure to work with your medical doctor on helping reduce your risks. Be sure everyone is working as a team to be sure you are getting the help you need. Your health should be number one priority.